Amherstburg, Ontario

Amherstburg is one of Southwestern Ontario’s oldest settlements, having been settled by Loyalists after the British evacuation of Detroit in 1796. The town was named after Lord Jeffrey Amherst, commander of the British forces in America at the time of their conquest of Canada.

Fort Malden National Historic Site was built on the Detroit River after the British surrender of Detroit in 1796. A principal Upper Canada frontier post for about 50 years, it was a rallying point for the British in the 1812 attack on Detroit.

Also of interest is the North American Black Historical Museum and Cultural Centre.

Amherstburg was one of the narrowest crossing points on the Detroit River and was a pivotal destination point for the many black slaves who found freedom in Canada through the Underground Railway.